Performing Arts

Students will spend the first portion of the term learning techniques from some of the masters of the art, then will study the work and criticism of a wide variety of authors, from Aristotle through Shakespeare to contemporary playwrights. Students will develop their work in class through the use of improvisation, group dialogue construction, and peer criticism, finishing the semester with polished, dramatically sound works.

In this course, we will rehearse and perform one or more short plays selected to match the group taking the class. We will go through a portion of the rehearsal process each time we meet: read-throughs, blocking, character study, and polish. A variety of techniques will be used in the development of the play, each chosen to best magnify and develop the talents of the participants. At the end of the term, we will invite an audience!

There are as many ways to learn acting as there have been teachers of acting. In this course, we will explore the techniques of some of the greatest teachers of all time, including Uta Hagen, Sanford Meisner, Lee Strasberg, Michael Chekov, Stella Adler, and of course, Constantin Stanislavski. Stanislavski's eight principles will be employed as students work on scenes and monologues to be presented in class. Improvisation, science study, and test analysis techniques will be developed, and students will leave the course with a thorough understanding of how actors approach their craft. In addition to performing, students will give a final presentation in class on the work and techniques of a great acting teacher or director.

Foundational music concepts are studied and applied as students gain a greater understanding of a variety of genres and compositions through active listening. Connections are explored between genres, historical eras, and current music. Engaging, creative activities foster the appreciation of music as an expressive art form. This course satisfies Kent’s music graduation requirement.

Students learn the elemental concepts of music theory, including basic notation, intervals, scale structures, key signatures, triads, basic chord progressions, and the first stage of melodic & harmonic analysis. Music theory skills (sight-singing, dictation & ear training) and composition basics are an integral part of this course.

Melodic & harmonic analysis continues with the introduction of more intermediate concepts such as secondary triads. Students arrange music for small ensembles, gain knowledge about orchestral instruments, and begin full score reading & conducting. Music theory skills continue. Prerequisite: Music Theory 1.

In this continuation of Music Theory 2, students are introduced to chromatic harmony, functional seventh chords, key modulation, and analysis of small forms. Music theory skills are further developed. Student compositions are performed at the conclusion of the term. Prerequisite: Music Theory 2.

The origins and development of jazz as a musical genre will be examined. From its African-influenced roots to its modern-day amalgamation of styles, jazz as a means of musical expression will be researched and analyzed. Students will be exposed to the experience of listening to jazz in its various historical adaptations.

The origins, evolution, and influence of the blues as a musical art form through its impact on American culture and society will be explored. The course will be based on lectures, listening examples, lyric readings and analysis, and associated references.

The history and evolution of rock music will be examined through analysis, cultural and historical alignment, listening, and its impact on society. The rock era will be divided into various periods and discussions of various influential musical artists and their work will be examined.

The Concert Band, Concert Choir, and Orchestra are graded credit-earning ensembles. Three terms of dedicated involvement in any of these ensembles satisfy the music requirement for graduation. The Concert Band is comprised of students, faculty, and some community members. The Concert Band studies classic, modern, and “pop” literature and performs throughout the year. The Orchestra studies classical, modern, “pops,” and global literature, and performs throughout the year. The Concert Choir is a large, mixed choral ensemble open to all students. This larger choir gives newer singers a wonderful opportunity to learn about quality choral singing techniques. More seasoned singers will enjoy singing with a larger group, and the extensive, challenging, and fun repertoire is available for this size ensemble.

This course is an examination of the equipment and techniques used in live sound and studio recording applications Topics include acoustics, microphones, mixers, effects, sound production and reinforcement, and ethical and legal issues. This course can apply toward the fulfillment of the Pre-Engineering Certificate.

This course serves as an introduction to the equipment and methods used in software-based music composition, arranging, and multi-track recording. Students will create original musical projects. Topics include electronic composition, sound production techniques, digital audio workstations, and MIDI. This course can apply toward the fulfillment of the Pre-Engineering Certificate. No prerequisite is required, however, Music Technology I or a music background is suggested.

This course is a continuation of Music Technology 2 including advanced recording and post-production techniques. In addition, music promotion and marketing methods will be examined. Topics include advanced studio production techniques, film scoring, mastering and post-production, and promotion and marketing. This course can apply toward the fulfillment of the Pre-Engineering Certificate. Prerequisite: Music Technology 2.